A Dangerous Heatwave Is Coming in Hot. Here's How to Fix Your AC and Stay Cool
Southern states are about to be blasted by triple-digit temperatures, and for those living in these states, it's important to stay hydrated and cool. Make sure your AC won't fail you in this pivotal moment.
Simple fixes can help when your AC is on the fritz.
This summer might prove to be an absolute scorcher, and it's following the hottest summer since recordkeeping began in 2023. Now, a potentially disastrous heatwave is about to hit the US, heating up places ranging from Texas right up to and along the eastern seaboard. It's good to be on high alert, especially if you live in the Lone Star state. When the temperature rises to triple-digits, you need to be prepared to fight a serious health risk.
If your thermostat is set to 70 but your home feels like 90, there may be a problem with the air conditioner. No need to panic.
Whether you have central air conditioning or a window unit, there are a few ways you can troubleshoot cooling problems without calling in for a repair.
Don't worry, these tips don't require you to do anything dangerous or technical. They're simple fixes that anyone can try before resorting to more drastic (and more expensive) measures.
Change the filter
Problem: Your room or house takes longer than usual to cool down.
Fix: It's probably time to clean or change the air filter on your air conditioner, depending on whether you have a reusable or disposable filter.
Remove the filter (you may need to check the AC's manual to find it) and hold it up to the light. If you can't see light shining through it, then it's clogged with dust. The dust inhibits your AC's airflow, making your unit work less efficiently.
If you have a disposable filter, simply switch it out with a new one. If it's a washable filter (again, check your manual), fill a tub with a few inches of warm water and a couple of drops of mild dishwashing liquid. Let the filter soak for 10 minutes, then rinse it well with clean water. Shake the excess water from the filter, and then let it air dry before reinstalling it.
See if the unit is frozen
Problem: Your AC unit is blowing air, but it's room temperature or warm and the room won't get cool.
Fix: Sometimes when an air conditioner runs nonstop to keep up with the heat, the evaporator coil freezes over. Put your hand on the side of the unit near where the filter is. If it feels very cold, then your unit is probably frozen inside. You may even see ice hanging off the AC itself.
Turn off the cooling mode and turn on the fan to let the evaporator coils defrost. While you're at it, be sure that the filter and the coils around the filter are dust-free. Dust might inhibit the airflow efficiency of your unit, but it can also make an AC unit freeze over, too.
Defrosting can take a few hours, so you may want to go out to a movie or head to the mall while you wait -- and if you need to stay home, it's especially important to stay hydrated as you bear the brunt of the heat.
Very important: Do not use your air conditioner on the cool setting if you suspect it is frozen over. This can ruin the compressor (an important component), leading to expensive repairs. Again, either turn on the fan only or turn the whole unit off until the ice melts.
Check the vents
Problem: You have central air and one room isn't getting cool, but the others are.
Fix: This may seem obvious, but check the vents in the room, especially if they're on the floor. Debris may have fallen in and blocked the air passage, or a toddler may have stuffed play clay down into the vent (it's happened). Either way, unscrew the vent plate and scoop out anything that may be blocking the flow of air.
Give it a wash
Problem: You've tried all these fixes and the AC still isn't cooling properly.
Fix: The outside vents may be clogged up. Unplug the window unit or shut off the circuit breaker for your outdoor unit. Spray the part of the unit that is outside the window or by your house with a water hose to wash off any dirt, leaves or bug carcasses that may be blocking airflow. You can also use a large cleaning brush to sweep debris from the grates. Make sure you're using an appropriate brush for the task, that won't do any damage to your unit.
Call in the professionals
If none of these solutions are helping, it's time to call in the professionals. There's no shame in having to get outside help, and you certainly don't want to damage your air conditioner or cause serious, costly issues to stay cool during the middle of a heatwave.